Why Smile?: The Science Behind Facial Expressions [Paperback]

When someone smiles, the effects are often positive: a glum mood lifts; an apology is accepted; a deal is struck; a flirtation begins. But change the circumstances or the cast of a smile, and the terms shift: a rival grins to get under your skin; a bullys smirk unsettles his mark. Marianne LaFrance, called the worlds expert on smiles, investigates the familiar grin and finds that it is not quite as simple as it first appears. LaFrance shows how the smile says much more than we realizeor care to admit: not just cheerful expressions, smiles are social acts with serious consequences.Yale psychology professor Marianne LaFrance draws on the latest researchin fields from biology to anthropology to computer sciencein an effort to shed some light on the happy face.LaFrances extensive research, clear and sometimes humorous writing, and interdisciplinary approach make this a very fine book for anyone who smiles (or doesnt).LaFrance shows that there is much more to a pair of upturned lips than meets the eye.A masterly example of social sciences at its besta look at how researchers do their work, what questions they ask, how answers lead to new questions, and why all of this matters in our everyday lives. . . . LaFrances true subject is not simply the smile but its uniquely human double purpose: to convey our feelingsand disguise them.A charming, thoughtful book, one that makes a powerful case for smiles as social acts with consequences.